Ohio Police Caution Residents About Unexpected Gift Deliveries
AKRON, Ohio (WJW) – The Akron Police Department is alerting residents to a new scam involving unexpected gift deliveries, known as a “brushing” scam. According to a recent post on their Facebook page, this scam has been reported in multiple states.
The scam involves receiving a package addressed to the recipient but lacking any sender information. When the recipient opens the package, they may find a QR code that claims to reveal the sender’s identity. However, scanning this code can compromise personal information, sending it directly to scammers.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has also issued warnings about this scam. The packages may appear to come from reputable companies like Amazon but are often sent by third-party sellers, many of which are overseas. Common items reported include inexpensive products such as humidifiers, hand warmers, flashlights, Bluetooth speakers, and even ping pong balls or seeds from China.
The good news is that police advise residents to simply keep or dispose of the unwanted items, but to avoid scanning the QR code at all costs.
Amazon has partnered with the BBB to help consumers identify scams and stay informed about suspicious communications. For more information on common Amazon scam trends, visit their website, and to learn more about these unexpected “gifts,” check the BBB’s resources.
